Judge Berman Named Presiding Judge of the Family Division
in Middlesex Vicinage

New Jersey Chief Justice Deborah T. Poritz has announced the appointment of Superior Court Judge Glenn Berman to presiding judge of the Family Division is Middlesex Vicinage effective January 1, 2003.

"Judge Berman's experience and enthusiasm for the law have served our vicinage well," said Middlesex Assignment Judge Robert Longhi. "The Family Division in Middlesex will benefit greatly from his leadership."

Appointed to the Superior Court by Governor Tom Kean in 1989, Judge Berman served the Judiciary until 1998, when he was appointed Middlesex County Prosecutor by Governor Christie Whitman. Judge Berman was reappointed to the bench this summer by Governor Jim McGreevey.

After receiving a bachelor's degree from Gettysburg College and a law degree from Case Western Reserve Law School in 1972, Judge Berman was in private practice until his first appointment to the bench. He resides in East Brunswick with his wife Grace and their children, Morgan and Kyle.

"I am honored to be appointed presiding judge," said Judge Berman. "and I look forward to the challenges ahead."

Judge Berman replaces Judge Robert Figarotta, who is retiring as presiding judge of the Family Division effective December 31. Appointed to the Superior Court in 1981 by Governor Brendan Byrne, Judge Figarotta served as presiding judge of the Criminal Division in Middlesex until 1998, when he was named presiding judge of the Family Division.

"We are grateful for the more than 20 years of service that Judge Figarotta has given to the Judiciary in Middlesex," said Judge Longhi. "We will miss his wisdom, his dedication, and his friendship as he enjoys a hard-earned retirement from the bench."

Judge Figarotta remarked of his judicial career, "I have enjoyed my years on the bench immensely, and I have worked with some truly wonderful judges, clerks, and staff members during my career."